FG Saves N1bn Through Passport Reforms Annually, Issues Over 3.5m Passports in Two Years

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government on Tuesday said over 3.5 million passports has been issued in less than two years, adding that a massive N1 billion plus have been saved annually through reforms in the nation’s passport processing system.

The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja at the inauguration of the Ministry’s new Passport Front Office.

Tunji-Ojo said the reforms were implemented in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to enhance efficiency, security, and service delivery.

The minister while stating that the administration met a backlog of over 200,000 unprocessed passports and a debt of nearly ₦20 billion in the sector when it assumed office in 2023, disclosed that the backlog and debt have since been cleared.

He said. “While 3,080,141 passports were issued locally, 466,117 passports were also issued in the diaspora since August 2023. This brings the total of 3,546,258 passports issued “

Tunji-Ojo noted that the ministry also fully automated the upload of breeder documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, which previously cost government about N1 billion annually.

He said: “This is a major reform. We no longer pay contractors for what Nigerians can upload themselves. That money stays with government now.”

The Minister revealed that the number of centres issuing enhanced e-passports had increased from 26 to 44 in Nigeria and from five to 47 in the diaspora, while stating that
all passport offices now issue harmonised enhanced passports in line with global best practices.

He said: “We inherited a system where different types of passports were issued. That affected our credibility. Today, every Nigerian passport is ICAO-compliant and globally verifiable.”

Tunji-Ojo promised that a new passport central personalisation centre with modern technology, provided at no cost by Iris Smart Technologies, would become operational by August 2025.

He commended the company for supporting the government’s reform efforts and providing advanced passport production equipment without cost to the treasury.

He said Nigeria now produces passports in more than 50 locations, both within the country and abroad, and has joined the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Public Key Directory for global passport authentication.

He announced that effective July 31, all applications for Special Expatriate Permits and Temporary Work Permits must be submitted online.

“Manual processing will no longer be allowed. We must have the data, biometrics and documentation of every applicant for national security,” he said.

Tunji-Ojo said the reforms reflect the Federal Government’s commitment to digital governance, transparency, and efficient service delivery.

FG Saves N1bn Through Passport Reforms Annually, Issues Over 3.5m Passports in Two Years

RARARA’: Atiku Abubakar, Nasiru El-rufai, and Rotimi Ameachi lack the cohesive strength and popular support necessary to unseat Tinubu-Shettima in 2027

By: Maina Maina

The political landscape leading up to Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election is marked by intense rivalry, particularly between the trio of Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi, and the incumbent Bola Tinubu alongside his running mate Shettima. Despite their vocal opposition to Tinubu’s administration, many analysts argue that this trio lacks the cohesive strength and popular support necessary to unseat Tinubu. 

Hakeem Baba-Ahmed suggests that Atiku, El-Rufai, and Amaechi should step aside to mentor younger leaders who can offer fresh perspectives rather than pursuing power themselves. This recommendation underscores a broader call for renewal in Nigerian politics rather than recycling established figures.

While Atiku and his allies vow to challenge Tinubu’s re-election, citing national insecurity and economic hardship, public sentiment appears divided, with some Nigerians urging unity behind alternative candidates like Peter Obi. However, those truly committed to a vibrant democracy may find greater promise in supporting Tinubu’s proven political strategy combined with Kashim Shettima’s appeal. Thus, dismissing the claims of the opposition trio as lacking substantive engagement aligns with calls for pragmatic leadership that prioritizes national stability over fractious political ambition.

Also, Dauda Kahutu Radar, a prominent Hausa musician, asserted his confidence that he would be given the opportunity to contest the Nigerian presidential election against notable political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Nasiru El-Rufai, and Rotimi Ameachi. He emphasized that his widespread popularity and deep connection with Nigerians surpass the influence of these politicians, who he claims are forming a coalition against the Tinubu-Shettima ticket. 

Rarara’s statement reflects a growing trend where cultural icons leverage their public appeal to challenge traditional political actors. This claim underscores an evolving dynamic in Nigerian politics where celebrity status translates into political capital. Although not speaking for himself but for President Tinubu, his confidence stems from his perceived ability to mobilize grassroots support through his music and public persona.

His position challenges established political alliances and raises questions about voter preferences in contemporary Nigeria. Dauda Kahutu Rarara’s declaration highlights how non-traditional candidates might disrupt conventional electoral contests by capitalizing on popular appeal rather than entrenched party structures, a case that makes the coalition’s appeal child’s play. 

The Hausa musician, in an interview with DCL Hausa, critically assessed the political legacies of Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi, emphasizing their failure to meet the expectations of Nigerian citizens during their respective tenures. According to the musician, these figures have consistently revealed governance approaches that fall short of delivering tangible development and accountability. This pattern of underperformance has eroded public trust and credibility, thereby diminishing their capacity to effectively challenge the current Tinubu administration.

The musician argued that despite their political ambitions and vocal opposition to President Tinubu’s government, Atiku, El-Rufai, and Amaechi lack the moral authority necessary for substantive critique. Their previous governance records do not inspire confidence among Nigerians who seek progressive leadership. Consequently, this perceived deficiency undermines their legitimacy as credible alternatives or critics in Nigeria’s complex political landscape. The musician’s perspective underscores a broader discourse on accountability and leadership efficacy within Nigerian politics.

• Maina Maina writes from Kano.

RARARA’: Atiku Abubakar, Nasiru El-rufai, and Rotimi Ameachi lack the cohesive strength and popular support necessary to unseat Tinubu-Shettima in 2027

Charterhouse Lagos purpose-built secondary boarding school set to open in September

By: Michael Mike

Charterhouse Lagos, the first British independent school in Nigeria, marked its one-year anniversary with a special reception held at the British Residence:

The event brought together an esteemed gathering of senior educators, parents, diplomats, and cross-sector leaders to celebrate the school’s achievements over the past year.

A key moment of the evening was the announcement of the school’s next major milestone, which is the launch of its purpose-built secondary boarding school set to open in September 2025. The event also served as both a celebration and a reaffirmation of Lagos’ commitment to offering traditional Nigerian values alongside British academic excellence.

The evening featured remarks from key stakeholders, short films showcasing the Charterhouse journey so far, and thought-provoking discussions on the future of education in Nigeria. The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and partnership, reinforcing Charterhouse Lagos as a beacon of UK–Nigeria educational collaboration.

Part of the prestigious Charterhouse family of schools, whose legacy dates to 1611, Charterhouse Lagos, opened its doors in September 2024, with a vibrant primary school programme, and is now set to expand significantly with the opening of its secondary school in September 2025, offering boarding for students from Year 7 upwards and full IGCSE and A Level pathways by 2026.

Speaking at the event, British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Jonny Baxter said: “The UK and Nigeria have built a strong and enduring educational partnership over the years. Generations of Nigerian students have studied in British schools and universities, forming lifelong connections and shaping global careers.

“Today, that relationship is evolving. UK institutions are increasingly investing in Nigeria’s future and Charterhouse School, Lagos, is another great example. By bringing world-class British education to one of Africa’s most dynamic cities, it supports the aspirations of Nigerian families and reflects the UK’s commitment to long-term collaboration and growth in the region.”

Director of Education at Charterhouse Lagos, Mr. John Todd said: “This is more than a school project. We are building a learning environment that combines British rigour with Nigerian warmth, where children can grow in confidence, character, and global awareness. The response from families has been remarkable, and we are excited to begin the next phase with the secondary school.”

With an investment of over USD $150 million sitting on a 70-hectare campus, Charterhouse Lagos will house state of the art academic buildings, boarding houses, STEM labs, a performing arts centre, a full-size football pitch, a 25-metre swimming pool, and on-site healthcare delivered in partnership with Evercare Hospital.

Charterhouse Lagos is a British international school located in Nigeria, offering a rigorous British curriculum for primary and secondary students. It’s the first British independent school in West Africa and part of the prestigious Charterhouse family of schools. The school emphasizes academic excellence, leadership development, and a holistic approach to education.

Charterhouse Lagos purpose-built secondary boarding school set to open in September